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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Tonneau dress watch

DeLaneau Tonneau Dress Watch

Partially verified

This DeLaneau wristwatch features an 18k white gold tonneau-shaped case measuring 30mm by 35mm. The design is characterized by its elongated profile and a dial constructed from brown alligator skin, which provides texture and contrast against the white gold case. The watch is powered by a mechanical movement. It is fitted with a replacement HC leather strap and retains its original DeLaneau buckle. The object is accompanied by its original box. The case back is engraved with the number 1637 and hallmarks indicating 18k gold composition. Condition reports note the presence of light surface wear on the case and light usage marks on the original buckle. A small amount of dust is present under the crystal.

Front view of the DeLaneau tonneau watch, highlighting the brown alligator dial and white gold tonneau case.
Front view of the DeLaneau tonneau watch, highlighting the brown alligator dial and white gold tonneau case. — Huntington Company. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
huntingtoncompany.com
Category
Wristwatch · Tonneau dress watch
Maker / attribution
DeLaneau
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
Not established
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
1637

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Construction

The watch is housed in an 18k white gold case with a tonneau shape, measuring 30mm by 35mm. This elongated design is intended to provide visual presence on the wrist compared to traditional round watch geometries. The case finish shows light surface wear consistent with age and normal usage.

The dial is composed of brown alligator skin, integrating the material's natural texture directly onto the watch face. This element is described as a contrast to the cool tones of the white gold case, contributing to the watch's overall aesthetic and providing a distinct departure from conventional dress watch configurations of the period. Hands are present and legible against the dark, textured dial surface.

Evidence for this section
  • “The 18k white gold case measures 30mm by 35mm”
  • “The brown alligator dial is the feature that completely transforms the watch. Rather than simply using an alligator strap as an accessory, the material becomes part of the watch itself”
  • “The 18k white gold tonneau case presents very well overall, with light surface wear consistent with age and normal use.”

Components and Accessories

The watch includes an original DeLaneau buckle, which the source notes remains with the piece, showing light signs of use. The original box is also provided with the watch, contributing to the completeness of the package.

A new HC leather strap has been installed on the watch. The case back, visible in the provided imagery, is stamped with the numerical sequence 1637 and hallmarks denoting 18k gold purity. No specific details regarding the interior movement are provided, other than it being a mechanical caliber.

Evidence for this section
  • “A new HC leather strap has been fitted while the original DeLaneau buckle remains with the watch”
  • “The original box is also included”
  • “The original DeLaneau buckle remains with the watch and presents well with light signs of use.”

Reported Condition

The auction description reports that the 18k white gold case remains in good condition with minor surface wear. The dial is described as retaining its natural texture without significant degradation.

The crystal exhibits a small amount of dust visible upon close inspection, though this is noted as unnoticeable during routine wear. All components, including the hands, are reported to be in functional and clear condition.

Evidence for this section
  • “The brown alligator dial presents beautifully, retaining the natural texture and variation”
  • “A small amount of dust is visible under close inspection but is effectively unnoticeable during normal wear.”
  • “The hands present well overall and remain clearly legible”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific mechanical movement caliber used by DeLaneau for this reference?
  • Can the production period be further refined based on the serial number 1637?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for DeLaneau Tonneau Dress Watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerDeLaneau“DeLaneau”
Case material18k white gold“18k white gold case”
Case dimensions30mm x 35mm“30mm by 35mm”
Dial materialBrown alligator“brown alligator dial”
StrapNew HC leather strap“new HC leather strap”
ContentsOriginal DeLaneau box“original box is also included”

Visible details

  • Case back engraved with '1637' and '18K'
  • Crown features a dark cabochon
  • Brown alligator skin dial with visible natural texture
  • Elongated tonneau case proportions

Research qualifications

  • The exact production year is not specified by the source
  • The specific mechanical movement type is not described in detail

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

DeLaneau Tonneau Leather Dial White Gold Dress Watch

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record f9ba6d8f22

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.